On 22 April 2026, during the City Destinations Alliance International Conference & General Assembly in Helsinki, which brought together destination leaders and tourism professionals from across Europe, members of the association elected new Board representatives and a Vice-President.

At the City Destinations Alliance General Assembly, Maya Janssen (Amsterdam) was elected Vice-President for a one-year mandate.

Leena Lassila (Helsinki), Marie-Louise Schnurpfeil (Linz) and Y.T. Anderson (Oulu) were newly elected, while Gerry Lennon (Belfast) was re-elected as Board Member, each serving a three-year term.

“Cities don’t compete for visitors—they thrive through collaboration: learning, sharing, creating, and innovating together. As Vice-President of City Destinations Alliance, I aim to connect people, ideas, and action to shape a visitor economy that is sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready. As an Amsterdammer, I believe diversity strengthens cities—and leadership—and I’m committed to turning that belief into real impact by strengthening the CityDNA brand and increasing its value for—and connection with—its members.” said Maya Janssen, Managing Director Insights & Marketing Strategy, amsterdam&partners.

Barbara Jamison-Woods (London) continues as President, while Patrik Romano (Bologna) remains Treasurer. Sabine Schwanz (Madrid) and Patrick Bontinck (Brussels) also continue in their roles as Vice-Presidents.

“The level of interest in these elections sends a clear signal: our members are not only engaged, they are ready to lead. This new composition of the Board strengthens our collective capacity to act, to represent cities at European level, and to turn shared ambition into concrete impact for our communities.” said Barbara Jamison-Woods, President of City Destinations Alliance.

Gary Breen (Dublin), Łukasz Wysocki (Gdańsk), Michaela Spišáková Podoláková (Košice), Jurgen Moors (Maastricht) and Miguel Angel Pérez (Valencia) continue their respective mandates as Board Members of the association.
 

Current Executive Committee of City Destinations Alliance:

• Barbara Jamison, President (Head of Europe, Tourism and Convention Bureau, London & Partners)
• Patrick Bontinck, Vice-President (CEO, visit.brussels)
• Maya Janssen, Vice-President (Managing Director Insights & Marketing Strategy, amsterdam&partners)
• Sabine Schwanz, Vice-President (Director Travel Trade & Connectivity, Madrid Destino)
• Patrik Romano, Treasurer (Managing Director, Bologna Welcome)

Current Board Members of City Destinations Alliance:

• Gerry Lennon (CEO, Visit Belfast)
• Gary Breen (Head of Visitor Engagement, Fáilte Ireland Dublin)
• Łukasz Wysocki (President of the Board, Visit Gdansk)
• Leena Lassila (Director, Visitor & Talent Attraction, Helsinki Partners)
• Michaela Spišáková Podoláková (CEO, Visit Košice)
• Marie-Louise Schnurpfeil (Managing Director, Linz Tourismus)
• Jurgen Moors (Director, Maastricht Convention Bureau)
• Y.T. Anderson (President & CEO, Visit Oulu)
• Miguel Angel Pérez (Vice Deputy Director and Head of Markets, Connectivity and Major Projects Area, Visit València)

HQ Magazine was present in Helsinki to cover the event and will shortly publish on its website the key takeaways, main points of discussion and overall highlights from the conference and General Assembly.
 

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As consolidation accelerates across the destination management sector, the DMC Network is sharpening its positioning around a message it believes is more relevant than ever: independence still matters.

The organisation has unveiled a new global promise, "We're Here for You," designed to reflect a model built on independently owned, locally led destination management companies operating in more than 100 destinations worldwide.

At a time when private equity investment, roll-ups and multi-destination platforms are reshaping how services are delivered across the meetings and travel landscape, the DMC Network is doubling down on a different approach — one that combines international reach with local ownership, in-market expertise and direct accountability.

Rather than a simple brand refresh, the Network positions this new promise as a clear expression of what clients increasingly value: faster decision-making, closer working relationships, and the assurance that responsibility lies with those who know the destination best.

Aoife Delaney (on the right), Managing Director of the DMC Network, said: “Our strength has always been our people - owners and teams who are deeply embedded in their destinations and fully accountable for the work they deliver. What we’ve done now is articulate that more clearly. We are locally rooted in every market we serve, but globally aligned through shared standards, governance and a unified platform. That combination gives our clients confidence and consistency, while still preserving the authenticity and agility that come from local ownership. ‘We’re here for you’ expresses that perfectly. It’s about being present, responsive and personally invested in every programme we deliver.”

The Network argues that this distinction is becoming increasingly important as buyers navigate a market where scale is expanding, but flexibility and local authority risk being diluted.

Josh De Silva, Chairperson of the DMC Network and President of De Silva Meeting Consultants, said: “There’s no question that the industry is consolidating, and that brings certain advantages. But it can also lead to standardisation and distance from the destination itself. What the DMC Network offers is a different model where you’re working with independent operators who have real ownership of their business, deep knowledge of their market and the authority to make decisions quickly. That independence translates into better outcomes: more flexibility, more creativity and a stronger sense of accountability. And ultimately, that’s what clients are looking for.”

With this repositioning, the DMC Network is reinforcing its role as a global platform offering the best of both worlds: the scale and connectivity of an international network, combined with the responsiveness and authenticity of independent, locally rooted operators.

The DMC Network is a global platform connecting a curated community of independently owned and managed destination management companies across more than 100 destinations worldwide. Locally rooted and globally aligned, the Network provides clients with seamless access to trusted expertise, delivering creative, accountable and high-quality solutions for meetings, incentives and events.

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Destinations International (DI), the global association representing DMOs and convention and visitors bureaux (CVBs), has placed governance and community value at the heart of its strategy. Its newly launched Advocacy and Action Initiative brings together three major research and policy documents outlining how destination organisations must evolve: the Advocacy and Action Strategic Roadmap, the 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study, and The Advocacy Leadership Imperative. Together, these resources provide a broader understanding of destination leadership and convey the clear message that effective advocacy requires credibility, skills, and long-term accountability.

HQ spoke with Sophia Hyder Hock (on the right), DI’s Chief Impact Officer, to explore how this shift can be implemented in practice, and what support destination organisations will require to deliver meaningful decisions and outcomes.

Bridging the Capacity Gap

Although the roadmap encourages DMOs and CVBs to play a strategic role in promoting community vitality, the latest DestinationNEXT Futures Study reveals that many still lack the internal capacity to provide effective advocacy. For Sophia, the first step is acknowledging this gap without judgement. “The 2025 Destinations International DNEXT Futures Study gives us a realistic picture of the industry’s current capacity, and we used that insight to shape a roadmap responding to actual needs rather than aspirational assumptions,” she said.

DI’s response is deliberately phased. The organisation is guiding members to become confident with foundational tools such as the Community Shared Value framework, the Community Vitality Wheel, the Social Impact Framework, Tourism Lexicon and recent sentiment research. These tools will be supported by a learning series, mentorship opportunities, templates and what she describes as a practical hotline for organisations that need rapid guidance. “In essence, we reconcile the gap by designing realistic, accessible and sequenced supports that meet destination organisations exactly where they are today,” she said.

As capacity increases, DI plans to introduce more advanced resources, including an interactive advocacy platform, a centralised communication hub and micro-learning pathways that reflect different stages of professional development. In her experience, the most effective accelerators are those that feel immediately actionable, particularly for teams that may be understaffed or operating under pressure. Practicality sits at the core of DI’s approach, paired with the reassurance that advocacy does not need to feel isolating inside an organisation.

Resident Trust and the Governance Mandate

Across all three DI documents, resident sentiment, belonging and community alignment have emerged as central measures of destination performance. Yet few destination organisations consistently track these indicators. Sophia sees this as a structural gap influenced by decades of investment in visitor-led metrics. “Measuring resident perception or trust requires different systems, different investments and a willingness to ask questions that may not yield flattering answers,” she said.

DI is addressing this by aligning the Social Impact Framework, the Community Vitality Wheel and sentiment studies so that members have adaptable tools for measurement and reporting. Importantly, accreditation standards are being updated to include resident-facing criteria, signalling that awareness, inclusion and community benefit are becoming core expectations of future-ready organisations.

Sophia argues that measurement becomes realistic only when leaders recognise that resident trust directly influences the stability of funding and workforce attractiveness. “When social impact is reframed as a core business strategy rather than a moral aspiration, investment in measurement becomes not only realistic, but inevitable,” she explained.

The governance implications are significant. Many organisations face internal barriers, including cautious boards and limited experience with social impact evaluation. DI cannot change governance structures, but it can equip professionals with the framing and data that make difficult conversations more objective. “DI cannot compel boards to evolve, but we can equip staff with resources and framing that make these conversations less fraught and more productive,” she said. Benchmarks from the Futures Study and other research provide staff with a neutral evidence base that they can use to advocate for change within their own organisations.
 

Data, Accountability and the Path Ahead

The roadmap promotes data-driven advocacy, yet public trust in institutional communication is declining. DI is addressing this credibility gap by partnering with recognised experts to produce sentiment and performance data and by encouraging common metrics that allow destinations to learn collectively. “Credibility is built through the quality of information, the transparency with which it is shared and the extent to which community members feel represented within it,” Sophia said. She supports shared metrics and thirdparty validation as essential steps for ensuring legitimacy with residents and policymakers.

DI’s broader vision is captured in what it calls The Destination Effect, which seeks to measure outcomes such as policy alignment, funding stability, resident trust and long-term economic vitality. Sophia is clear that organisations will be recognised not for compelling narratives but for evidence. “Our priority is to reward organisations that demonstrate evidence-based impact rather than just compelling storytelling,” she explained. This represents a shift from traditional destination marketing towards governanceoriented accountability.

The initiative also addresses the expanding scope of destination organisations. Although 84% now engage in destination development, few have formal authority in planning or infrastructure decisions. Sophia emphasises that DI is not asking organisations to assume roles they do not legally possess. Instead, she believes their influence comes from their convening power. “The leadership role we envision does not require formal authority, but it does require skill in facilitation, community engagement and nonpartisan communication,” she said.

DI is supporting this through training on conflict-sensitive communication, language that allows destination leaders to speak credibly about sensitive issues and the encouragement of advisory structures that include residents and underrepresented groups. The aim is to help organisations strengthen community legitimacy without compromising neutrality or credibility.
 

"Advocacy becomes far less vulnerable to organisational or political turnover when it is defined as essential and not discretionary."

Part of ensuring lasting relevance is recognising what failure looks like. Sophia offers a clear view: “Failure is not theoretical. It can result from losing the narrative with residents, losing influence with policymakers and ultimately losing funding because the organisation cannot articulate its true economic and social value to the community.” DI is developing earlywarning mechanisms through its research, accreditation feedback and advisory activities, alongside a hotline for rapidresponse guidance.

The upcoming Advocacy and Action: Destination Impact Event, taking place from 20 to 22 October 2026 in Ottawa, Canada, is designed to accelerate adoption. Rather than separating advocacy and impact, the event integrates both through clinics, challenge-based sessions and cross-functional learning pathways. Success will be measured not by satisfaction but by whether participants adopt new metrics, update their advocacy strategies or achieve outcomes linked to tools or relationships developed at the event.

The global relevance of the initiative remains a priority, particularly for destinations operating under different governance systems. Sophia emphasises that DI’s frameworks are designed as adaptable scaffolding. Her commitment is grounded in listening and regional collaboration. The ambition is not to export a North American model, but to provide principles of leadership, resilience and community engagement that can be applied across diverse political and cultural contexts.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

As the U.S. marks its 250th anniversary, Washington, DC is the nation’s central gathering place to celebrate. For meeting planners, 2026 presents an extraordinary opportunity to align conferences, meetings and incentive programmes with a year-long celebration filled with new cultural openings, storytelling and the unmatched experience of convening in the nation’s capital. 

“Throughout 2026, nowhere will the celebration for America’s 250th be more spectacular than the nation’s capital,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. “Washington, DC is the only place where meetings can engage directly with the stories and symbols that shaped our democracy. Meeting attendees will experience new museum openings, special exhibitions, theater and programs that explore our history, progress and future. For planners, this year presents the chance to design agendas that truly resonate and connect events with a national celebration of historic scale.” 
 

Washington, DC Continues to Stand Out for Meetings 

This milestone year aligns with strong convention performance. As of Jan. 5, 2026, convention center events are projected to generate 484,408 total room nights, with hotel-only meetings accounting for 308,498 total room nights and tentative bookings estimated at 224,062 room nights. The 2026 citywide outlook is estimated at 395,307 total room nights, 267,940 attendees and 19 groups. 

As part of its reinvigorated Connected Capital strategy, Destination DC is developing sector-specific platforms that intentionally connect meetings and events with the city’s deep intellectual capital—from policy and advocacy to technology, energy, aerospace, healthcare, finance and emerging industries. By aligning conferences with Washington, DC’s subject matter experts, institutions and thought leaders, the city enhances every event with insights and content no other destination can offer. 

“Washington, DC’s strength as a meetings destination lies in its intellectual capital,” said Melissa A. Riley, SVP, Convention Sales and Services. “Gatherings in DC are more meaningful thanks to think tanks, universities and growing technology and finance sectors, combined with access, walkability and experience-rich culture.” 
 
DC’s Connected Campus showcases how meeting planners can activate cultural and event spaces across the city, with The Wharf Campus (below) as a standout example. The LEED-certified waterfront community is anchored by premier venues, including The Anthem and Arena Stage, and supported by contemporary hotels such as the InterContinental Washington, DC, Canopy by Hilton and Pendry Washington, DC – The Wharf. Together, they offer over 800 guestrooms and 24,000 sq. ft. of meeting space steps from the water. Additional venues, such as District Pier and the Dockmaster Building, offer marina views and flexible capacity for 100 to 1,000 attendees. With award-winning dining, lively nightlife, abundant outdoor spaces and easy transit access, The Wharf exemplifies how Connected Campus elevates meetings and enhances the attendee experience. 

Through the “There’s Only One DC” campaign, DDC showcases the value of hosting events in the nation’s capital, highlighting the city’s free activities, vibrant neighborhoods and inclusive community.
 

Planning Resources 

Meeting planners can access a robust suite of tools on washington.org to streamline event planning and enhance the attendee experience. New and updated content includes: 

• Why Meet in DC
• 2026 Event Planning Guide
• Partnering with DDC’s Services Team
• Sustainability at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center

America’s 250th: A Year of Signature Events and Experiences 

Throughout 2026, Washington, DC will offer a dynamic calendar of events celebrating the nation’s story through seasonal festivals and thematic activations. Highlights include winter exhibitions, the springtime National Cherry Blossom Festival, which reflects the spirit of America; a month-long Smithsonian 250th Festival in the summer, showcasing the nation’s cultural landscape; and a fall outdoor exhibition planned by the Trust for the National Mall. Special experiences will be available year-round. Visitors can explore a growing calendar of events and a list of things to do, including the Fourth of July Celebration, while planners can find themed itineraries, new openings, citywide activations and updated event listings at DC250.us, the central hub for America’s 250th in Washington, DC.

Major Openings: 

• Improved Tidal Basin and 250 freshly planted cherry trees (Spring 2026) 
• National Geographic Museum of Exploration (Summer 2026) 
• National Air and Space Museum expansion (July 2026) 
• Innovative museum under the Lincoln Memorial (July 2026) 
• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden renovation (Fall 2026) 
• New exhibits at the Jefferson Memorial (2026)
• New concourse at Dulles International Airport (2026) 
• Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream (September 2025) 

Additionally, the National Archives recently opened a new, interactive museum. Following a $40 million renovation, the 10,000-square-foot space features original artifacts, documents and films, including George Washington’s original copy of the Constitution.  

DC will also debut 51 Steps to Freedom, an augmented reality walking tour through the city’s neighborhoods and landmarks. Users download a free mobile app to unlock interactive media, videos, music, artwork and archival audio that bring history to life.  
 

Select Historic Venues for Distinctive Events 

Washington, DC offers memorable venues that place attendees in settings tied directly to the nation’s history. A few notable options include: 

• The National Archives 
  Host events alongside the founding documents that shaped the nation, including recently reinstalled artifacts connected to the country’s 250-year journey. 

• The Mayflower Hotel 
  Celebrated for over a century of Washington history, the Mayflower offers elegant and flexible event spaces that are long associated with leadership and diplomacy. 

• National Museum of African American History and Culture 
  Entering its tenth year in 2026, the museum offers inspiring event spaces, including the Solomon Brown Suite and Terrace, which provide panoramic views of the National Mall. 
   

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Destination Canada highlighted the country’s bold spirit of openness at IMEX America in Las Vegas, NV last week, underscoring Canada’s commitment to making international conferences and business events seamless and accessible.

Canada showed up strong with 40 Destination Partners and created a buzz with their bold brand presence. A key feature of this year’s presence was Destination Canada’s collaboration with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the federal department responsible for entry requirements. At IMEX America, an IRCC representative joined Destination Canada at its booth to share practical guidance on entry requirements and demonstrate how Canada simplifies visa processes for event organisers and their delegates.

As part of this ongoing collaboration, Destination Canada shared a video created with IRCC (check below) that clearly outlines how straightforward the visa process is for attendees and organisers of international events. The step-by-step guide helps event planners quickly determine whether a delegate requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), a visitor visa, or neither, and provides straightforward instructions to navigate the application process with confidence.

“Our destinations are diverse and vibrant, our infrastructure world-class, and our accessibility stronger than many realise,” said Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events at Destination Canada. “By offering practical tools like this video and working alongside IRCC, we make hosting events in Canada seamless and replace current perceptions with a deeper understanding of a destination that is dynamic, inclusive, and ready to welcome the world.”

Event planners sometimes hold misconceptions that Canada is too difficult to access, creating hesitation when considering the country for international meetings and conferences. These ideas don’t reflect reality. Through the newly launched Canada, Naturally. brand platform and its ethos of open hearts, open minds, open spaces, Destination Canada is dispelling these notions by combining authentic storytelling with actionable resources, ensuring that organizers and delegates can plan with confidence.

These initiatives are part of a broader, ongoing programme aimed at reinforcing Canada’s competitive position in the global convention market, shifting the narrative from “Canada is hard to access” to “Canada is a welcoming, accessible destination for global business events.”​

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Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority (PCCA) and ASM Global announced a new strategic alliance sales model. The Alliance Sales Model is a collaborative initiative that streamlines sales operations to deliver a more unified, efficient and client-focused experience for Pennsylvania Convention Center (PCC) customers.

Previously, the PHLCVB’s role was to sell the PCC for long-term, citywide events. Under this enhanced model, the PHLCVB will assume full responsibility for all sales activity at the PCC, allowing for a single, seamless point of contact from initial inquiry to contract.

“I’m thrilled to share this major step forward in our continued evolution to better serve our clients and position the Pennsylvania Convention Center and Philadelphia as the premier destination in the convention and meetings industry,” said Maria Grasso, chief sales officer for the PHLCVB. “We remain committed to delivering best-in-class sales and services and are confident this new model will continue to enhance our success in booking and hosting big events in Philadelphia.”

This model is inspired by proven strategies in leading convention markets and is designed to accelerate bookings, enhance service consistency and elevate Philadelphia’s competitive edge.

“This unified model with our partners at the PHLCVB will mean continuing an unmatched service experience for our customers and partners and elevating the future of meetings and events in Philadelphia,” said John McNichol, president and CEO for the PCCA. “At the Pennsylvania Convention Center, providing the best for our guests remains our top priority, and this strategic alliance with the PHLCVB allows us to deliver even further on this promise at every phase of our customer interactions.”

ASM Global will maintain its exclusive focus on event operations, ensuring flawless execution and an exceptional experience on-site at the PCC.

“At ASM Global, we are committed to delivering a best in-class service experience for our clients,” said Tony Hodgins, regional general manager for ASM Global at the PCC. “We are grateful that this commitment to service is a shared core value for the PCCA and PHLCVB, and we look forward to our continued collaboration with our partners to maintain the Pennsylvania Convention Center’s position as a premier event facility.”

Under this bold new direction, Philadelphia clients will benefit from the "one-stop-shop" sales process through the PHLCVB; increased speed, clarity and coordination from proposal to execution; greater synergy with hotels, vendors and key partners across the region; and continued dedication to the valued legacy clients who define the spirit of the Philadelphia community.

As a result of the transition, Stephanie Boyd has been promoted within the PCCA to director of external affairs where she will champion authority initiatives and support our destination-wide alignment.

Several ASM Global staff members have transitioned to the PHLCVB team. Russell Kice has joined the PHLCVB as director of convention center sales, playing a key role in ensuring a smooth and successful integration of the new model. Brendon Fitzsimons and Chris Somers also join as convention center sales managers, along with Faith Betteridge as convention center sales coordinator.

PHLCVB creates positive economic impact across the Philadelphia region, driving job growth and promoting the health and vibrancy of our hospitality industry by marketing the destination, the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and attracting overnight visitors.

The Pennsylvania Convention Center is located in Center City Philadelphia at the heart of the city's many cultural offerings and world-class dining and entertainment scene. Managed by ASM Global, the Center is the 14th largest facility in the nation and features one of the largest exhibit spaces and ballrooms in the Northeastern U.S.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Ottawa Tourism has implemented a comprehensive Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan, positioning the city at the forefront of combating human trafficking within the business tourism and hospitality sectors.

This pioneering initiative underscores Ottawa's unwavering commitment to safety, justice, and ethical responsibility, enhancing its role as a premier destination for business events and their attendees.

Recognising the pervasive issue of human trafficking, Ottawa Tourism has collaborated with key partners — including Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking (MPAHT), Voice Found, and The Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking — to develop a strategic plan focused on awareness, education, and prevention. This collective effort aims to foster a secure environment for all visitors and residents.

Key components of the Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan include:

• Enhanced Access to Information: Ottawa Tourism is expanding its digital resources to provide vital information on human trafficking to the public, tourism industry members, and event organisers. This initiative ensures that comprehensive materials are readily available to those who need them.
   
• Comprehensive Training Programmes: In partnership with industry experts, Ottawa Tourism is offering specialised training sessions designed to equip tourism businesses and professionals with the knowledge to identify and address potential human trafficking situations effectively.
   
• Destination-Wide Assessment: An audit of Ottawa Tourism's members is being conducted to evaluate current anti-trafficking efforts, identify gaps, and inform future strategies to combat human trafficking more effectively.

In a landmark move, Ottawa Tourism has become an official partner of The Code (The Tourism Child-Protection Code of Conduct), demonstrating a steadfast commitment to responsible tourism practices that protect children from sexual exploitation. This partnership serves as a catalyst, encouraging other tourism organisations and destinations to take decisive action against human trafficking.

By proactively addressing human trafficking, Ottawa not only upholds the highest standards of morality and justice but also enhances its reputation as a safe and conscientious choice for business events. 

"At Ottawa Tourism, we believe that the travel and events industry has a profound responsibility to protect the most vulnerable in our communities,” says Lesley Pincombe (on the right), Vice President, Meetings and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism. “By taking a stand against human trafficking, we are not only making our city safer but also setting a new standard for ethical tourism. Our commitment to education, collaboration, and action ensures that Ottawa remains a premier destination where visitors, business event attendees, and residents can feel safe, valued, and protected."
 

For more information on Ottawa Tourism's Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan and resources available, visit their website
 

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Located in the province of Ontario, Ottawa is Canada’s most educated city and a centre for knowledgebased industries, with over 1,900 companies employing more than 75,000 people. The advantages of hosting large conferences and business events here are, therefore, numerous, converging specialisation and centrality. HQ's Magazine Manager, Manuel Fernandes, was at the beautiful Gleneagles Hotel and Resort in Scotland last Summer, where he spoke to the Ottawa Tourism team.

With a million English and French-speaking inhabitants and hundreds of international embassies, Ottawa has more people working in Engineering, ICT, Health and Life Sciences, Clean Technology and Aerospace, Defence and Security per capita than any other city in Canada. It is only natural then that it regularly rolls out the red carpet to associations and event organisers, competing with more popular cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. The Shaw Centre, Ottawa’s convention space of excellence, recognised with the AIPC APEX Award in 2020, hosts prestigious international events as well as important local and national gatherings that help support the local economy. Last June, HQ travelled to the Scottish Lowlands to take part in a fun get-together with planners and event managers, which, according to Lesley Pincombe, Vice-President of Meetings and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism, was quite intentional: “We see this as a bit of a first date. We want them to have an idea of what they might find that might be suitable for their conference. We do not choose people at random – we know which organisations they represent or whether they want to collaborate with a Canadian association or a centre of excellence like the Ottawa Heart Institute.” And as with the first date, it is best not to be too bold: “What we have experienced are lifelong ambassadors and the engagement with these guests has been very positive. Especially in the UK and EU countries, where the image of Ottawa is based very loosely on the assumption of the capital and little else!’

Ottawa carries the weight of most government offices, so all policies are informed and decided here by parliamentarians. From the National Defence Headquarters to the National Research Council, from Health Canada to Statistics Canada, this political representation makes it an attractive location for conferences and conventions of all kinds. In addition, there are also more than 600 Canadian associations based in Ottawa, which facilitate international collaborations or congresses mediated by a national partner. Ottawa Tourism also has very deep ties with the economic development team, Invest Ottawa. “They are the ones who drive start-ups and a lot of foreign investment, so they act as valuable bridges to reach this network of high-level individuals who can become keynote speakers and help promote certain areas.” The city also has universities and hospitals that are well integrated into the Ottawa ecosystem: “We have Carleton, Ottawa U, Algonquin College, as well as the French college La Cité, all of which have good research and development departments collaborating closely with the university hospitals.” There is a great deal of expertise here to attract vast investment in these ecosystems: “Right now, we are building a super hospital (The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus), and if we want the best talent and professionals to come here, their families have to see themselves in this community. It is not just about coming to work in a new hospital, we have to build a city where people want to pursue their lives,” adds Pincombe.

Since the pandemic, Ottawa has seen a decline in individual business travel, which has led to a greater focus on organising conferences. “We know that the return on investment for international MICE travellers is great because they arrive early and stay late and end up combining their conference with leisure.” When it comes to the legacy of events, Pincombe does not see it as a competition or a commercial strategy. Rather, they are complementary. When discerning the consequences of these conferences, they start by doing an initial impact analysis, looking at which is the best bid. “It is not just about calculating the dollars we think we can profit. We are really starting to think, ‘What is the social impact?’ ‘What is being left behind?’ So, the stronger our ecosystems are, the more significant activity there will be to create more jobs, investment, and a greater influence on people’s lives.”

Ottawa is occasionally referred to as the Silicon Valley of the North, and technology is the third-largest industry in the region. “We have a high concentration of highly qualified people in the fields of engineering and technology. When we look at the latter, especially with regard to autonomous vehicles, I highlight a truck testing facility called Area X.O, a research and development complex that aims to accelerate the commercial adoption of next-generation technology. We also have a huge experimental farm in our region run by the federal government, where tests are carried out on certain crops,” says Pincombe. In recent years, Ottawa Tourism has made a concerted effort to outline a DEI strategic plan aimed at tourism businesses that needed guidance for their conferences. “We have partnered with a college to launch an indigenous entrepreneurship programme (...) From a meetings and conventions perspective, what we have done is start to lift the veil on this story of reconciliation. We are on unceded land, a meeting place for Indigenous Peoples long before we built a convention centre. This year, we hosted the International Indigenous Tourism Conference in February, and we will be hosting many other indigenous conferences,” explains our Canadian interlocutor.

While Canada continues to welcome tens of thousands of immigrants – accounting for 210,865 new residents by May 2024 – these communities are becoming increasingly diverse, as are the needs and aspirations of their residents. Ottawa’s events also reflect this part of the population, and the DMO has endeavoured to create a MICE sector that respects this multiculturalism. One of these changes concerns women’s sport, with several competitions taking place in the city. “In the past, ice hockey events were quite dominant, but now cricket has gained prominence due to the thousands of people coming from countries where that sport is king. We have to constantly look at the make-up of our community and allow these newcomers to see themselves at these events. We will also be organising the National Conference on Ending Homelessness in October, as this is a global issue about affordable housing and the social degradation of highrisk groups.”

As part of this indigenous liaison, the DMO has been working on how to link sporting events in the city with indigenous communities. “The World Junior Ice Hockey Championship is set to happen in 2025 and we will be working with the three large indigenous communities in our region. We also organised the Pacific Four Series of women’s rugby last year, launching a series of community events in Ottawa, which included Let’s Play Rugby, a programme developed to offer girls aged 13 to 17 the opportunity to play a non-contact version of the game.” As a result of this event’s community activity, more than 3,000 balls were delivered to 230 schools and 12 clubs, “we know that this can create a social impact in these communities,” she says. Other success stories include the Masters Indigenous Games, the Wheelchair Basketball Championship and the OFSAA Wrestling Championship. Moreover, Ottawa Tourism is currently carrying out an audit of the destination’s accessibility in order to produce a report file on solutions at this level. “When we hosted the 18th Deafblind International World Conference at the Shaw Centre last year, we were essentially concerned that all standards were met. It turned out to be one of the best conferences ever because all the physical platforms and user solutions were integrated into the building,” concludes Pincombe.

The Business of Events (TBOE), in partnership with ICC Belfast, has unveiled the highly anticipated Global Destination Report 2024 at IBTM World, presenting an in-depth look at the global business events sector’s evolving landscape.

The report explores economic contributions, budget stability, government support, and the need for stronger industry advocacy across regions, while identifying the successes and challenges that continue to shape the sector. Commissioned by The Business of Events, this year’s report has again been produced in collaboration with SFA Connect, ICC Belfast, and IBTM World, with a focus on insights from industry stakeholders in global destinations.

Building on previous reports, the Global Destination Report 2024 offers critical data and recommendations for industry leaders and policymakers to strengthen the business events sector, drive economic growth, and foster international collaboration.

Key Findings

The report reveals notable growth in budget stability and economic impact for business events across developed regions. Destinations such as North America and Western Europe are enjoying economic benefits from large-scale business events, with over 50% of surveyed regions reporting event-driven contributions that exceed €100 million annually. Respondents from developed areas, including Western Europe (9%), Central Europe (13%), and North America (13%), reported economic values from business events reaching over €5 billion in 2024.

However, the findings indicate persistent disparities in economic benefit. While developed regions continue to thrive, smaller cities and less developed areas are not capturing the same level of economic gain from business events, highlighting the need for inclusive growth strategies. Additionally, while funding remains stable or grows for larger destinations, regions in Central and South America are reassessing funding models to align with changing market dynamics.

Martin Fullard, Director of The Business of Events, commented on the report’s purpose and the importance of ongoing research: “The 2024 Global Destination Report serves as an essential tool for industry stakeholders to understand the real-time challenges and opportunities in the business events sector. Our findings reveal that while many regions benefit economically, the sector still faces an advocacy gap with policymakers. We’re proud to provide data that destinations can leverage to secure funding and make the case for the essential role business events play in economic and social development.”

Government Advocacy and Funding Support

A core area of focus in the report is the ongoing call for stronger government advocacy. The majority of respondents indicated that government recognition of business events’ value remains insufficient. While Africa, the Middle East, and Central and South America reported some progress in government support, many other regions expressed frustration with a lack of engagement or meaningful policy support.

Claudia Hall, Show Director of IBTM World, highlighted IBTM World’s commitment to providing a platform for industry-wide discussions: “IBTM World is dedicated to supporting the business events industry and advancing dialogue on critical issues such as advocacy. By creating a forum for open discussions, we hope to empower industry professionals and help drive positive change. Reports like this one are vital, as they shine a light on areas where we can collectively work to influence decision-makers and secure a stronger future for business events.”

Budget Stability and Staffing Challenges

The report points to a promising trend in budget stability, with most respondents reporting steady or increasing budgets in developed regions. Larger destinations and capital cities have benefited from budget growth, enabling better planning and sustainability within the sector. However, budget cuts were still reported in Central and Southern America, parts of Europe, and the Middle East, and the issue of undersized teams remains widespread across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. This staffing concern could hinder the sector’s ability to meet demand and achieve long-term growth.

Ross Moffett, Sales Director of ICC Belfast, noted the importance of sustainable funding and staffing: “Our industry has a powerful impact on economies worldwide, but sustainable growth requires commitment and investment.  We support the Global Destination Report as it highlights the very real financial and operational pressures many destinations face, particularly around skills shortages. This report shows the invaluable economic engine that exists when business events are given the right support. It reinforces the need for governments to provide the appropriate policy focus necessary to help our sector thrive.”
 

Future-Oriented Business Models and Over-Tourism Impact

The report also identifies changes in business models across regions. Areas like Asia and Central/Southern America are actively reviewing funding strategies to adapt to market needs, while regions such as Southern and Northern Europe report higher stability with minimal shifts in their approach. Interestingly, the findings indicate that over-tourism does not present a major barrier to business events, with 82% of respondents noting no adverse effect. However, Asia emerged as an exception, with 50% of respondents from the region noting over-tourism as a potential concern for event hosting.

Driving Progress and Collaboration in the Business Events Sector

In its concluding recommendations, the Global Destination Report 2024 stresses the importance of alignment between the business events sector and government policy, including the need for increased advocacy and direct financial support. Suggestions include implementing tax incentives, promoting sustainability, and establishing stronger industry-academic partnerships to address talent shortages and drive sector growth.

As a whole, the report underscores the vital role that business events play in economic growth and social progress, while calling for industry stakeholders to use the findings to inform strategies that enhance resilience and sustainability.

The Global Destination Report 2024 is now available, providing essential insights for destinations, event organisers, and policymakers as they work to shape a future-oriented business events industry.

The report can be downloaded here

The 20th edition of the City Travel Report by CityDNA (formerly known as the CityDNA Benchmarking Report) reveals a steady growth in European city tourism, as cities achieved an average increase of 13.7% in 2023.

The report, featuring results from 117 European cities, showcases the remarkable progress made in the post-pandemic recovery. In line with sustainability strategies, the report includes estimations of transport-related CO2 emissions related to city tourism.

“This report is the perfect illustration of a fruitful collaboration between European destinations; it highlights significant trends, notable challenges, qualitative KPIs and key market dynamics that are shaping the landscape of city travel compared to national tourism,“ commented Barbara Jamison-Woods, President of City Destinations Alliance.

This development is due to growth in total bed nights experienced in 114 out of 117 analysed cities. The top three cities in terms of total bednights in 2023 remained the same as 2022: London, Paris, and Istanbul.

Among the top 20 performers, the most notable increases were recorded in Rome (45.2%), London (32.1%), and Vienna (30.6%). Compared to 2019, Istanbul had the highest growth: the city exceeded its 2019 values by 24.3%.

The main source markets for European cities have shown robust performance in 2023. However, the growth rates were diverse: single-digit growth for France; double-digit growth for United Kingdom, United States, Italy, Spain, and Germany; and an impressive triple-digit growth for China and Japan.

The past year has shown positive average international annual growth rates in both the report cities (19.6%) and the EU 27 nations and UK (13.8%). Cities increased much more than other regions (15.5% versus 7.2%) in terms of total volumes, which highlights yet again the importance of city destinations within European tourism.

Further analyses revealed that the average growth rate of bed capacity gained momentum with an increase of 4.6% in 2023. Regarding the bed occupancy, the benchmark average in 2023 was 46.8%, in comparison to 43.1% in 2022.

In line with the varied sustainability strategies that are on the agendas of many DMOs, the City Travel Report by CityDNA continues with estimations of transport-related CO2 emissions related to city tourism. Upon inspection of CO2 emissions caused by tourists travelling to/from the city, average nominal value for total CO2 in 2023 was at 776,678, which unsurprisingly, was heavily skewed by large cities such as Amsterdam, Lisbon, Vienna, and Prague. Regarding kg CO2 per tourist 2022-2023, average percentage growth was 11.8%, with only 3 out of 61 analysed cities recording negative rates, namely Stockholm, Liepaja, and Luxembourg.

These results offer a brief preview of the further post-pandemic recovery and stabilisation of the European city tourism in 2023, despite ongoing challenges (e.g., conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, inflation, and the impact of climate change). More insights and analyses that are found in the City Travel Report by CityDNA can be of great assistance to city DMOs in setting realistic targets for their destinations.

“City tourism is the clear growth driver of tourism demand in Europe and the most important segment in tourism. In 2023, demand was on track to fully return compared to the period before.” concluded Karl Wöber, President of Modul University Vienna.

Read the executive summary

Destinations International (DI), the world’s leading association representing destination organisations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), and TravelAbility, the leading conference and media company dedicated to making travel easier and more enjoyable for people with disabilities and the aging population, today launched the “Accessibility Playbook.”

This comprehensive guide equips destinations and travel businesses to improve their accessibility and inclusion initiatives for travelers with disabilities. 

Accessibility is a significant opportunity for the travel and tourism industry. The World Health Organization estimates that 1.3 billion people, or 16% of the global population, live with disabilities. Leisure and business travelers with disabilities continue to face many barriers related to travel, from initial travel research to visitation. Improved accessibility can make travel easier and better for people of all abilities, as well as benefit residents and local communities. 

Now available online for purchase by DI members, the Accessibility Playbook is a comprehensive resource containing technology recommendations, use-case scenarios, and data to inform accessibility strategy and decision. The Playbook includes more than 90 tips vetted by leading disability advocacy organisations, in addition to “TravelAbility Trusted” innovations, amenities, and a directory of third-party providers that can help destination organisations and travel businesses assess and scale existing accessibility efforts. 

“Accessibility is a critical and growing focus for our members,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “It’s important to visitors as well as residents, and a key component of a welcoming and thriving community. We’re delighted to have TravelAbility as our trusted partner in developing this invaluable resource to help destination organisations and travel businesses worldwide advance accessibility in their local communities.”

“This is a win-win for travel organisations and the millions of travelers who can benefit from more accessible and inclusive travel experiences,” said Jake Steinman, founder and CEO of TravelAbility. “TravelAbility is thrilled to partner with Destinations International to advance the cause of accessibility in the travel industry. What excites me the most is that this partnership opens the door to reaching more than 750 destinations worldwide to help them become more inclusive.”

Visit São Paulo directly promotes tourism in the destination, both by attracting and supporting major events and micro and medium-sized meetings, which generate wealth, jobs and business for both large companies and local businesses. But for this Brazilian juggernaut, it all starts with the MICE business. Thus, the development of the other segments ends up passing through MICE and evolving in a unified or independent way.

The main financial and corporate centre in Latin America, São Paulo is the most populous city in Brazil, the American continent, the Portuguese speaking world and the entire southern hemisphere, and the fifth most populous in the world, with a metropolitan area of around 21 million inhabitants. As such, it is also Brazil’s economic engine, responsible for around 10% of the country’s GDP, and a major base for multinational offices, as well as hosting the country’s main events, be they leisure, entertainment, business events or MICE. 

Visit São Paulo is a brand of the 25 de Janeiro Foundation, which also runs the São Paulo Convention & Visitors Bureau. It is a nonprofit organisation, maintained by the private sector, which aims to boost the economy by attracting national and international events, training professionals and promoting the destination. The city of São Paulo has successfully hosted many important events in different sectors, such as the RD SUMMIT 2023, the largest marketing, sales and innovation event in Latin America with 20,000 visitors. For 2024, the goal is to increase this number outside of the fixed calendar for the coming years, prospecting 50 national and international biddings. The destination is a powerhouse when it comes to entertainment, sports, corporate and academic events. São Paulo stands out in the areas of finance, health, education, agribusiness and engineering.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, the city has faced the same challenges as the world’s major capitals, leading to a halt in the events and travel market to make way for the fight against the disease, especially in terms of prevention. According to pre-pandemic data, the sector was responsible for attracting around seven million tourists a year and the recovery, which began in 2021, has brought both lessons learned and the after-effects of the crisis. Lessons, because if the format of trade shows and congresses had been undergoing a digital transformation, the years 2020 and 2021 accelerated the process, introducing technologies in full, such as hybrid participation and the metaverse, which are still present today; after-eff ects, since a whole fi nancial issue remained unresolved. After all, there were practically two years of zero activity, including cancellations and refunds.

“In Brazil, thanks to the hard work of entities and associations that represent many companies in different sectors, various measures were taken to make the recovery sustainable, so that commitments could be met and new business generated. São Paulo has followed and strengthened this movement, and today has a busy calendar of events, high economic fl ow, hotels with high occupancy rates and event spaces with a busy agenda,” says Toni Sando, Executive President of the São Paulo Convention & Visitor Bureau (pictured above). “In this megalopolis, half of the 15 million annual visitors are motivated by business and events, with the capacity to expand due to its large structure of accommodation facilities, convention centres, exhibition pavilions, transport, road access and, above all, three well-located airports with national and international fl ights. “São Paulo is in a privileged position for tourism, events and travel. As mentioned above, there is a busy calendar of events, whether for entertainment and leisure, with major festivals such as The Town, Primavera Sound, Lollapalooza, Formula 1, Carnival and Street Carnival, LGBTQIA+ Pride Parade, or for business, congresses, symposia and conventions.”

In addition, there is a wide range of cultural, artistic and gastronomic activities to choose from, with restaurants run by world-renowned chefs, museums with outstanding exhibitions, shopping malls, iconic shopping streets, nightlife, historic and modern architecture, etc. As far as the state of São Paulo is concerned, there are other variants of ecotourism, adventure, religious, health and beach tourism, among others, for complementary incentives to major events. “This way, when the communication strategy is prepared, it is possible to segment the public and unify the visitor’s experience, who may come motivated by one theme, but end up enjoying others.” The competition between destinations to attract events includes various factors for the committee’s decisionmaking, such as location, language, currency, infrastructure, price, public support, sponsors, the event’s market, and, according to Toni, tourism policy changes from destination to destination: “We need to understand the need for each prospective event to liaise with interested agents when making its proposal, and for the public authorities to do their part in supporting the attraction of the event.”

Diversity is one of São Paulo’s main assets as a plural, multicultural and global destination, and its hospitality stems from this combination. “São Paulo is home to diverse cultures and styles, the result of its history whose essential chapters for Brazil were written by diff erent people. This diversity is represented by the diff erent types of cuisine, religions, cultures, neighbourhoods, as well as multinationals from all over the world,” recaps Sando. The path to becoming a Smart City is being taken by all cities that wish to remain relevant in the events and travel sectors. “In this regard, Visit São Paulo has innovated by implementing Lina on its website, an AI virtual travel agent to help users with all their questions and needs related to São Paulo. She is constantly being updated to provide information on tourism in the city and help you plan an all-round good trip,” adds Sando. Environmental, Social, and Governance rating is also a key element for sustainable tourism, keeping the destination viable all year round, with a smart way to organise modern events, accessible tourist attractions and respect for the surrounding environment. “We see facilities such as hotels and convention centres taking legal and certifi ed routes to green sustainability. In the case of Visit São Paulo, travellers are compensated through the purchase of carbon credits, as well as compensation for proprietary events.”

São Paulo’s main vocation is MICE, which is essential for the sector’s prosperity. However, other sectors have great potential for boosting the economy through tourism, whether with MICE travellers or visitors with other motivations. For decades, Visit São Paulo has been feeding an intellectual event agenda, which, together with reports from sectorial organisations, such as accommodation providers and airlines, public authorities at municipal, state and federal levels, makes it possible to carry out a predictive study of trends, as well as being decision-making material for executives in the tourism and events sector. “It is possible to predict trends, as well as generate business for companies and professionals who use the data for information and knowledge management,” concludes the bureau’s head.

Events in the pipeline:

• XV International Congress of Uro-Oncology 2024
• International Society for Quality in Health Care Conference 2025
• IWA World Water Congress 2030

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has published its latest ranking of countries that organised the most international events in 2023, highlighting Colombia's performance. Globally, Colombia ranks 34th, establishing itself as an attractive destination for meetings and events tourism.

As for the South American ranking, Colombia is in third place, with a total of 103 events, only behind Brazil and Argentina, while in the Latin American context, it is within the top 10 countries in the region.

“We are very proud of Colombia's performance in the ICCA ranking. This recognition is the result of joint efforts between ProColombia, the National Network of Bureaus, and the promotion offices of each city, which work tirelessly to position the country and its regions as top-tier destinations for international events. We are confident that Colombia, the Country of Beauty, will continue to be a preferred destination for the meetings and events industry”, said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, the promotion agency of the country.

Colombian cities have also stood out in the ICCA ranking. Bogotá ranks as the third city in Latin America, hosting a total of 46 events. Cartagena, in turn, ranks 9th regionally with 25 events. Meanwhile, Medellín occupies the 11th position in the Latin American context with a total of 15 events.

To be considered in the ICCA ranking, events must meet specific criteria: have more than 50 attendees, rotate between at least three countries, have a defined periodicity, be organised by non-governmental or corporate associations, and have held more than one edition, with the third edition confirmed.

These criteria ensure that the events included in the ranking have a significant impact and international relevance. It is important to note that many more events are held in Colombia than those recorded by ICCA, but only those that meet these strict requirements are included in the ranking.

Colombia is trending!

The year 2023 saw a significant increase in the arrival of travelers for meetings, with over 220,000 people, 32% more than in 2022. The United States, Mexico, and Brazil are the main sources of these travelers, representing more than a third of the total. Additionally, countries such as China, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Chile, and Mexico showed notable growth in the number of travelers to Colombia.

The most visited cities for meetings are Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Cali, and Barranquilla. Meanwhile, in the first two months of 2024, more than 36,900 foreign visitors have arrived for this purpose, which is 22.3% more than in the same period of 2023.

Why Colombia is an ideal destination for hosting events, meetings, and conventions?

Colombia offers multiple reasons to be chosen as an event destination:

1. International Air Connectivity: With 29 international airlines connecting 11 Colombian cities to 51 cities in 28 countries, in May the country has more than 1,300 weekly frequencies and 242,000 available seats.
    
2. Competitive Prices: According to a study by ProColombia and STA Consultores, the cost of organising an event in Colombia is considerably lower, being 60% more cost effective than in Mexico and 75% more than in the United States.
    
3. Event Infrastructure: Colombia has 27 convention centers and 455 hotels with meeting rooms, suitable for large-scale events.
    
4. Hosting Experience: The Country of Beauty has hosted important international events such as the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization, One Young World, and the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates, among others.
    
5. Non-Traditional Venues: With 117 unconventional spaces, Colombia offers unique locations for events, ranging from public spaces to historic sites.
    
6. High-Quality Accommodations: The hotel infrastructure includes over nine thousand hotels and more than 228,900 available rooms, featuring international brands such as Accor, Hilton, and Marriott.
    
7. High-Quality Service: The friendliness and professionalism of Colombians ensure the successful development of events, with unique attention and experience in the meetings industry.
    
8. Unique Experiences: Colombia offers transformative, sustainable, and meaningful travel experiences, including but not limited to sensory activities with coffee, fruit tastings, and unique cultural events.
    
9. Investment Destination: Colombia stands out for its ability to attract foreign direct investment. There are key sectors such as agribusiness, technology, tourism, manufacturing, and services, among others, that offer a wide range of opportunities for international investors.

© The Wharf DC | Washington DC

More people visited Washington, DC in 2023 than ever before, Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organisation for the nation’s capital, announced today. Washington, DC welcomed 25.95 million total visitors last year, up 17% from 2022 and surpassing the pre-pandemic record set in 2019. The new benchmark resulted in a record $10.2 billion in visitor spending and supported a record 102,366 local jobs. 

“This is a major milestone for Washington, DC,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, DDC. “Put simply, we are seeing the results of our increased marketing and sales efforts thanks to the tourism recovery district legislation, and the city is benefitting from increased tourism. There is still work to do, however, since international travel hasn’t fully recovered. The additional funding allows us to continue to entice international visitors who stay longer and spend more.”

Of the record 25.95 million total visitors, 24 million traveled domestically. That means domestic visitation has fully rebounded to 105% of 2019 figures. International visitation continues to trend towards pre-pandemic levels. The 1.95 million international visitors indicate an 85% return, but a 40% increase year-over-year. International travelers typically stay longer and spend twice as much as their domestic counterparts.

The data underscores the importance of increased tourism to the city’s economy, with visitor spending up 29% and local jobs created from tourism up 25% year-over-year, respectively.

“We are proud to show millions of visitors every year why Washington, DC is the most important city in the world,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “Tourism is critical to our city’s vitality, yielding jobs for our residents, dollars for our local businesses, and revenue for our investments in a stronger DC. As we continue to share the story of our city and create fantastic destinations for our visitors, we are grateful to Destination DC and all our hospitality partners for the work they do every day to remind people that there’s only one DC.”

DDC launched its award-winning creative campaign, “There’s Only One DC,” last November, positioning DC as wholly unique and spotlighting its diversity of experiences and free things to do. Additional funding through the tourism recovery district has enabled DDC to ensure the messaging reaches potential travelers. “There’s Only One DC” has the largest reach of any DDC campaign to date. 

Campaign content connects to washington.org, where potential visitors discover hotel deals, event listings, dining and itinerary inspiration. Travelers can book stays directly at stay.washington.org. Editorial coverage complements paid and owned channels. 

The new data was revealed during DDC’s Travel Rally, held annually with the U.S. Travel Association, which focuses on ways to make travel easier and promotes the industry’s importance to communities across the country.

“Travel is a driver of economic success, as reflected in the strength of visitation to Washington, DC and in communities across the nation,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO, U.S. Travel Association. “We will continue to focus on growing this critical sector, which supports jobs for more than 15 million American workers, benefits local businesses, and fuels other industries which depend on travel to help them thrive.”

The event took place at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, celebrating its 20th year on the National Mall and opening a new exhibit called Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains on June 1. Next month’s Smithsonian Folklife Festival (June 26-July 1) celebrates the living traditions of Indigenous peoples in recognition of the anniversary.  

“This is an exciting year of anniversaries for the National Museum of the American Indian,” said Cynthia Chavez Lamar, the museum’s director. “From the 2024 Smithsonian Folklife Festival to our new exhibitions and exciting programs, we hope everyone will join us to celebrate Indigenous cultures.”

This summer is also highlighted by the reopening of the Folger Shakespeare Library (June 21), a Capitol Hill landmark which holds the world’s largest Shakespeare collection. DC boasts a packed calendar of iconic festivals and events, particularly over holiday weekends, as well as a star-studded sports schedule. Capital Pride (May 31-June 9) will serve as a prelude to WorldPride, a two-week festival that could bring millions to the nation’s capital in 2025. In addition, the 75th NATO Summit will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center (July 9-11). 

A new tech-driven White House visitors center, The People’s House, opens this fall, as does the city’s first Arlo hotel (October). The highly anticipated Salamander, along the revitalised Southwest Waterfront, is expected to complete its phased enhancements. The famed St. Regis, Four Seasons and Capital Hilton have all unveiled renovations. Exciting rebrands include the Hotel Nell – Union Market and Hotel AKA Washington Circle. In 2026, Washington, DC will host a yearlong celebration commemorating America’s 250th anniversary throughout the city’s cultural institutions, museums, attractions, restaurants and hotels.

DDC’s news coincides with an announcement from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute: two giant pandas are returning by the end of the year. The Zoo will be one of only two in the U.S. to see the beloved animals, and the only one with free entry.

Washington, DC Visitation Data: * 

• In 2023, DC welcomed a record 25.95 million visitors (24 million domestic; 1.95 million international)
• In 2022, DC welcomed 22.1 million total visitors (20.7 domestic; 1.4 million international).
• Prior to the pandemic, in 2019, DC welcomed 25.1 million total visitors (22.8 million domestic; 2.3 million international).
• In summary, total visitation is up 17% year-over-year and up four% compared to 2019. 

Visitation Impact:  

• Visitors spent a record $10.2 billion in 2023.
  Up 29% year-over-year and 111% of 2019.

• Visitors supported a record 102,366 jobs in 2023.
  Up 25% year-over-year and 134% of 2019. 

International Visitation (2023): 

• Top international markets (in descending order): Canada, United Kingdom, India, Germany, France, South Korea, Mexico, Italy, Spain and China. 
   

*Sources: MMGY Travel Intelligence, S&P Global Market Intelligence, National Travel & Tourism Office, U.S. Department of Commerce 

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the global events and exhibitions industry leader and business enabler, has continued its trajectory of driving substantial impact for Dubai’s economy. Against the backdrop of the ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda D33 - aiming to secure the city’s status as one of the top three global destinations for business and travel by 2033, DWTC’s international leadership in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector continues to play a pivotal role in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a powerhouse of economic activity and innovation.

DWTC’s 2023 Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) Annual Report underscores the company’s sustained contribution to the city’s GDP, especially highlighting the remarkable surge in Total Economic Output of AED 18.28Bn from 76 large-scale Exhibitions, International Association Conventions, and Industry Conferences (of the total 301 exhibitions and events in 2023). Notably, the Gross Value Added (GVA) to Dubai’s GDP by these large-scale events amounted to AED 10.53Bn, representing 58% of the total economic output being retained within the local economy, fostering 69,281 jobs and generating AED 3.36Bn in disposable income.

The 76 large-scale business events hosted, organised and delivered by DWTC attracted 1.54 million attendees, with 46% being international attendees. In absolute terms, this reflects a remarkable 53% year-on-year increase in foreign attendance, further cementing Dubai’s growing dominance and heightened relevance in the increasingly borderless world of business. Beyond the impressive domestic economic implications of these statistics, activities at DWTC not only provided a platform for businesses and individuals to connect, collaborate, and innovate, but also facilitated wider trade and business output for the global business community.

His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, DWTC Authority, said: “Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai World Trade Centre stands as a symbol of innovation and economic advancement. Aligned with Dubai's Economic Agenda D33, we continue to spearhead sector diversification efforts, reinforcing the city’s stature as a leading global business hub”.

“The remarkable accomplishments of 2023, presented in the ‘DWTC Economic Impact Report’ demonstrate that Dubai’s MICE sector, driven by DWTC, remains a vital pillar of financial resilience and growth underscoring our accelerated strides towards sustainable socio-economic development. The increase in international participation, along with the significant economic impact generated across diverse sectors such as travel, accommodation and retail, highlights the city’s steadfast commitment to propelling business tourism."

Adjacent sectors drive increased GDP impact

2023’s unprecedented results, attributed to the increased number of large-scale events and international business visitors, resulted in remarkable growth and higher spending across MICE business services and adjacent industry sectors. Direct revenue generated through expenditure in adjacent sectors reached over AED 10.81Bn. The key sectors in the domestic economy that benefited were Hotel Accommodation (AED 2.96Bn, 54% YOY growth), Air Travel and Local Transport (AED 2.64Bn, 20% YOY growth), Retail (AED 1.97Bn, 71% YOY growth), Restaurants (AED 1.71Bn, 51% YOY growth), and Business Entertainment (AED 1.31Bn, 27% YOY growth).

According to the Economic Impact Report, the large-scale events at DWTC supported a total of 69,281 jobs and generated an aggregate AED 3.36 billion in disposable household income, demonstrating the significant impact of high value- adding sectors, like Dubai’s MICE industry, to the local economy.

Rise in international participation at DWTC events

Dubai's status as a premier international MICE destination, coupled with DWTC's robust events calendar, has been instrumental in drawing the global business community in record numbers to the city. International participants deliver a higher ‘tourism’ related direct economic impact, linked to their increased daily spends with local businesses, longer stays in hotels, and by travelling with colleagues or family members (companions).

The notable 53% YOY increase in international participants yielded significant contribution to Dubai’s GDP, with an average participant spend of AED 10,313 per event, which is 6.2 times higher than that of local participants. This reflects the value beyond the MICE sector, as DWTC's performance in 2023 directly contributed to increased economic activity across Air Travel and Local Transport; Hotel Accommodation; Retail; Restaurants and Business Entertainment.

DWTC's large-scale events boost economic impact

76 large-scale events (2,000 or more attendees), generated sales of approximately AED 2.33Bn within the MICE sector, resulting in nearly 8 times that value in economic output. This means that for every dirham invested by an organiser or attendee at a DWTC event, it generates eight times in sales value for the broader Dubai economy.

The success of DWTC’s own events and exhibitions such as GITEX Global and Gulfood, which generated AED 7.22Bn in economic output and AED 4.15Bn in GVA – a 53% increase over 2022 – reflects DWTC’s unparalleled expertise in delivering world-class events that resonate with global audiences.

Top performing events highlight Dubai’s sector diversity

Sector diversity was evident in the top-performing events hosted at DWTC, with a robust portfolio featuring innovative large-scale exhibitions, conventions, and conferences aligned with Dubai economic agenda’s key priority verticals. ‘Healthcare, Medical, and Scientific’, ‘Information Communications Technology (ICT)’, and ‘Food, Hotel, and Catering’ stood out as the top three sectors, collectively accounting for 59% (AED 6.27Bn) of the GVA to Dubai’s economy. These three sectors combined attracted 49% (747,468) of total event attendees and 60% (430,122) of all international visitors, underscoring their significance. In 2023, the ICT events welcomed 259,837 visitors and generated a GVA of AED 2.22Bn, while Healthcare, Medical, and Scientific events attracted 261,348 attendees, contributing to a combined GVA of AED 2.17Bn whereas the Food, Hotel and Catering events attracted 226,283 attendees and generated a GVA of AED 1.87Bn.

"Moving forward, DWTC remains dedicated to shaping the future of Dubai’s business tourism and trade. We are unwavering in our commitment in ensuring Dubai remains a front-runner in the global events and exhibitions landscape, fostering new avenues for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and sustainable development," concluded His Excellency Almarri.

ICCA, the International Congress and Convention Association, announced at their Plenary meeting today during IMEX Frankfurt the ICCA Rankings Report for 2023. ICCA’s research team reviewed all the meetings submitted by ICCA members, resulting in a report that includes more than 10,000 meetings that took place in calendar year 2023.

"We’re pleased to share ICCA’s Country and City Rankings for 2023," said Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA. "Our research team has performed exceptionally in compiling this comprehensive data. It's a cornerstone for our association, providing invaluable insights that empower our members and enhance our community's strategic positioning."

This year's report stands out for the increased continental diversity in the Top 20 country rank as, besides European, Asian and North American countries, Latin America and Oceania were also represented compared to 2022. Additionally, the findings included the addition of an Asian destination into the year's top five spots. This result demonstrates the region's positive development in adapting to such a competitive environment.

ICCA will keep promoting the positive impacts international meetings and events can bring to all corners of the globe, and looks forward to continuing its role as a vehicle for change and an advocate for good in the industry and in the world as a whole.

Download the press copy here

The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) announced its new destination partnership with Meet Boston, the premier marketing and visitor services organisation for the Greater Boston region.

This strategic collaboration furthers IAPCO's engagement in North America, with Boston becoming the association's sole Destination Partner in the United States.

Meet Boston, formerly known as The Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau, is the primary private-sector marketing and visitor services organisation responsible for developing meetings, conventions and tourism-related business. With a mission to enhance the economy of Boston, Cambridge, and the metropolitan area, Meet Boston is dedicated to showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of the destination to a global audience.

"We are thrilled to welcome Meet Boston as our newest Destination Partner," said Nicola Testai, Chair of the IAPCO Commercial and Strategic Partnership Committee. "Boston's rich history, world-class facilities and vibrant cultural scene make it an ideal location for international meetings and events. This partnership aligns with our mission to provide our members with access to top-tier destinations worldwide."

As IAPCO's Destination Partner, Meet Boston will look to engage with the association's members to promote Boston as a premier destination for conferences, conventions and corporate events. The partnership will leverage Meet Boston's extensive expertise in marketing, visitor services and destination management to ensure IAPCO members and their clients receive unparalleled support and experience when hosting events in the region.

"Being a part of IAPCO provides Meet Boston with the opportunity to have brand exposure and engagement with members and the wider global meetings industry community," said Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of Meet Boston." This partnership will provide us with business development opportunities from the international meetings market – which is so important to our destination with our 60 non-stop international routes coming into Boston from around the globe. We’re looking forward to engaging with IAPCO and its members."

The partnership with Meet Boston complements IAPCO's existing destination partnership in North America with Toronto, further strengthening the association's presence on the continent. IAPCO members can now benefit from enhanced resources, insights and support when planning events in two of North America's most dynamic and sought-after destinations.

For more information, visit IAPCO's Destination Partners webpage

City Destinations Alliance and the Global Destination Sustainability Movement announced that their two back-to-back events in Urban Tourism and Sustainable Travel, CityDNA Autumn Conference & GDS-Forum will be hosted in Bruges on October 15-19, 2024.

For the second time, the CityDNA Autumn Conference will be linked to the GDS-Forum.

• The GDS-Forum, on October 15-16, 2024, will convene destination leaders and sustainability champions from around the world. This is a dynamic and unconventional gathering to discuss sustainability and impact strategies and best practices, learn from GDS-Index journeys, and co-create new approaches and initiatives for greater regenerative destination management. It will follow a non-conference format with a focus on peer-to-peer learning, collaboration, and creativity.
   
• The GDS-Awards Ceremony, on October 16, 2024, will bring both communities together in an entertaining and inspiring, evening-time celebration to recognise the winners of the 9th GDS-Index Awards. The larger platform enables greater reach and recognition for and aspiration around destinations whose sustainability contributions have now exceeded pre-pandemic levels in a global industry with a growing responsibility to “be the change we need to see in the world”.
   
• The CityDNA Autumn Conference, on October 16-19, 2024, will provide destination professionals working for Tourist Boards, CVBs & DMOs with a unique occasion to meet and network with colleagues from Europe and beyond, while learning and sharing knowledge and insights on the latest trends and challenges or urban tourism in Europe. The CityDNA conference will showcase a diverse range of collaborative sessions, inspiring discussions, and innovative approaches.

Former CityDNA Board Member and Visit Bruges Tourism Manager-Director, Dieter Dewulf said, “There are places that somehow manage to get under your skin. And this certainly applies to Bruges: a cosmopolitan and charming city that welcomes visitors from all over the world. As a dedicated member of the CityDNA community since 2006, we are honoured that the next “GDS-Forum & CityDNA Autumn Conference” will take place in Bruges and we are very much looking forward to welcoming our colleagues in the unique setting of our World Heritage City!”

“I am thrilled to share the news that Bruges will be the host city for the second GDS-Forum, brought to you by Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) and City Destinations Alliance. We are committed to empowering the mindful advancement and stewardship of travel destinations. Our goal is to safeguard ecosystem health, foster social inclusivity, cherish cultural heritage, and uphold economic sustainability. As such, we are privileged to take our next steps in Bruges,” added Guy Bigwood, CEO and Chief Changemaker from the GDS-Movement.

Petra Stušek, City Destinations Alliance’s President concluded: “We are really glad to announce that the CityDNA Autumn Conference & GDS-Forum 2024 will be held in Bruges. With a rich history and a commitment to sustainability, Bruges sets the perfect stage for discussions on the future of tourism. The city’s ambition to be climate neutral by 2050 aligns seamlessly with our focus on ‘better’ rather than ‘more’ tourism. We anticipate a conference that will not only explore industry trends but also fosters connections in the warm and hospitable setting of Bruges!”

For more information, please visit the website

Destination Canada released its latest Tourism Outlook: Unlocking Opportunities for the Sector, showing total tourism revenue is set to exceed 2019 levels, generating $109.5 billion by the end of 2023.

This represents the recovery of the tourism sector from the COVID-19 pandemic, one year earlier than projected. Despite tourism coming to a standstill in 2020, the industry, post recovery, is expected to grow faster than the general economy at 5.8%, reflecting its resilience and importance to the economic vitality of the country.

While this is positive news, it is important to recognise that recovery both geographically and across sub sectors has been uneven. The challenge ahead is creating profitable growth for tourism businesses given their current debt loads and inflationary pressures.

The report outlines that there is an opportunity for the tourism sector’s growth trajectory to reach $160 billion in revenue by 2030, but capacity constraints are limiting the sector from achieving its full potential. A transformational path must be embraced. Without change, tourism will move forward along its long-term trajectory where constraints will limit its potential to $140 billion, which when adjusted for inflation, shows no real growth.

“At this critical juncture, we face a clear choice,” said Meaghan Ferrigno, Destination Canada’s Chief Data and Analytics Officer. “The difference between $160 and $140 billion is about more than revenue. It’s about unleashing capacity when and where we have it, it's about creating stable employment and enhancing societal wellbeing. And importantly, it’s about smart growth that drives real prosperity for tourism businesses across every corner of this country.”
 

Key Report Highlights

1) Tourism revenue will exceed pre-pandemic levels in 2023: Amid inflationary headwinds, tourism spending will exceed pre-COVID-19 levels in 2023, reaching $109.5 billion. Domestic activity has led revenue recovery and is on track to reach 104% of 2019 levels by the end of 2023.

2) Opportunities constrained by capacity​: As we look to 2024 and beyond, opportunities for growth prevail but challenges persist as we enter a fiercely competitive global marketplace where we are all vying to attract travellers. ​Demand for travel is projected to grow by 30% by 2030 and will outpace our capacity to host in peak seasons, limiting Canada's growth potential.

3) $160 billion Potential: The report identifies a $160 billion revenue potential for the tourism industry by 2030, but only if a transformational path is taken that addresses constraints and shifts demand to change how growth occurs.

4) Closing the $20 billion opportunity gap: Destination Canada proposes a transformative path to secure an additional $20 billion in annual revenue by 2030, driving real prosperity for tourism businesses across the country and contributing a 14% increase in GDP generated by tourism, 84,000 more jobs and $5.3 billion more in tax revenue for all levels of Government.

5) Transformational path: Industry transformation will close the $20 billion opportunity gap but it will require sector-wide collaboration on seven key levers: revenue and yield growth, brand leadership, investment, access, workforce and digital readiness, environmental sustainability and support from Canadians.

Destination Canada proposes a transformative approach to unlock the additional $20 billion in revenue annually by 2030. The report outlines seven key levers that will bolster Canada’s competitiveness and address constraints. These include workforce development, unleashing capacity outside of peak season, attracting higher yield guests, increasing air access, and bolstering new investment and reinvestment to the sector.

“This is a truly pivotal moment for our industry. The opportunity between our transformational growth agenda and the current continuous path is one that we cannot afford to lose. We need to choose collective action to overcome the constraints that hold us back from unlocking the true potential of the tourism sector,” said, Destination Canada’s President and CEO, Marsha Walden. “If we work together, we can achieve what’s possible and recapture our position as a top destination for global tourism and create wealth and wellbeing for all of Canada”.

Download the full report here

For most of us, Central Asia is a vastly unknown territory, especially when it comes to congress destinations. Yet, many explorers and caravans have travelled through this land since the days of the Silk Roads. Kazakhstan stands out from the other four Stan countries (Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan) — for example, the cities of Almaty and the new capital, Astana, have started the race to attract conventions and events. But let me first tell you what a Stan country is. Stan means "stony field", but it has slowly evolved to mean "place of" or "land". In turn, Kazakhstan means "The Land of the Great Steppe".

The land that disappeared

I have enjoyed reading the stories that English non-fiction writer Christopher Robbins has written about Kazakhstan. His book 'Apples Come from Kazakhstan' is subtitled The Land That Disappeared. It has become a reference book for people who want to get to know Kazakhstan. There is no better introduction than to briefly follow Robbins on his travels through this former Soviet country, which also had the unfortunate reputation of being a place of exile. Kazakhstan, a country larger than the whole of Western Europe, has a population of 15.4 million. To the south lie the Tien Shan mountains and, in the centre, a vast, empty steppe and apple trees grow wild everywhere.

If you stand at a bus stop in Almaty in summer, you can almost certainly pick an apple from a tree, and trust me, apples taste better in Kazakhstan. Tulips are also native to the region, and in spring the foothills of the southern mountains turn into a sea of beautiful, colourful tulips. Coming back to the English writer Robbins, he was good friends with former President Nazarbayev, the man who proved that the country had survived and was not 'the land that disappeared', as Robbins wrote with a certain intention to say the opposite.

In the Soviet era, Kazakhstan was part of a larger whole, but since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the country has actually reappeared on the map and is doing its best to become a strong and prosperous state. Kazakhstan has not disappeared, but rather appeared! And the cities of Almaty and Astana have become very attractive for congresses. It's worth getting to know the country! 

The secrets of building a new city

It's strange for a European to end up in a completely new city. There are no old houses or buildings, no individual houses or small, cosy streets, just majestic flat blocks and wide streets - I'm talking about Astana, the new capital of Kazakhstan. Once again I refer to Robbins' book, remember I mentioned earlier that he was very good friends with President Nazarbayev? In the book, Nazarbayev emerges as a wise leader who recognised the failure of the communist system and had the best interests of his people at heart.

His priorities were on economic development, national prosperity and peaceful inter-ethnic relations, especially between Kazakhs and Russians, who respectively make up just over and just under half of the population. Nazarbayev was lucky in that the north-western part of the country is rich in oil, which was exploited in recent years with the help of Western oil companies and brought an economic boom to the Kazakhs.

The former windswept and lifeless steppe-town of Akmola was declared the new capital by Nazarbayev in 1994, and three years later there was a massive shift of civil servants from Almaty. Astana is now bursting with the latest government buildings and apartment blocks, and some spectacular new monuments, including the construction of a new prestigious building commissioned by Nazarbayev: a huge winter tent, modelled on the traditional yurt, in which Kazakhs can have summer fun in winter. Because it can be cold there in winter and hot in summer!

Astana, a new congress city

The former capital of Kazakhstan is Almaty, which means ‘'full of apples’'. It is also sometimes said that the apple was born here. Many visitors love this city because it has a long history and is surrounded by rich nature. There is also a famous ski resort nearby, Shymbulak. Almaty was the capital until 1997. Then Astana (also known as Nur-Sultan) took over the torch and Almaty has continued to revel in its rich past. I had the advantage of walking around Astana for a few days and exploring some of the iconic convention buildings and conference hotels, including the Expo Business District, which houses the ultra-modern Class A Business Centre, the Astana Congress Centre and the EXPO International Exhibition Centre, which hosts the highest level of convention, exhibition and trade show events.

The Convention Bureau of Astana is also well developed and has a lot of experience in organising congresses. Anyone looking at the list of congresses in Astana will be surprised. The Astana Congress Centre spans three floors and is bathed in light. Last but not least, the five-star Hilton Astana Hotel and the Mega Silk Way shopping and entertainment centre are easily accessible.

© Photo Hélico Inc - Tourisme Montréal

Sustainable tourism is vital. We want destinations that will be beautiful and attractive today — and also in 100 years. That’s the principle that guided Tourisme Montréal’s proactive sustainability strategy, one that helped it maintain its first place in North America on the 2023 Global Destination Sustainability Index. It’s a strategy toward what we term a harmonious destination — a city where the coexistence of residents and tourists is gloriously, harmoniously integrated.

Making events more sustainable

Business Events Montréal has got the professional experts as well as the tools you need to help you organize a sustainable event in Montréal easily and with singular aplomb. But regardless of where you’re planning your next event, here are four simple ways that you can ensure it’s more ecologically sustainable:

Make travel carbon neutral. Most airlines now offer the opportunity to offset carbon emissions while booking the ticket, plus organizations such as Montréal’s own Carbone boréal can also help. 

Make environmentally sensitive menu choices. Food production is responsible for up to a third of greenhouse gas emissions around the world. Find some tips here, but in short, serve less meat and dairy, and more locally grown veggies.

Partner with ecologically sensitive venues. Many event venues have attained modern environmental standards. Montréal’s own convention centre, Palais des congrès, is one of the first in the Americas to have a carbon-neutral building. Look for venues with stringent commitments to sustainability.

Educate your attendees on how they can individually make differences. Send a gentle reminder to attendees about the ways that they can limit their ecological footprint. Suggestions might include using public transit, bringing personal water bottles, reusing hotel towels, and more.

For more specific resources and guidance, consult our Guide to Best Practices for Sustainable Business Events! Business Events Montréal is here to help create a more sustainable events industry here and everywhere.

© Charlotte B.-Domingue - Tourisme Montréal

Sustainability as a strategy

Tourisme Montréal’s ambitious, overarching Sustainable Destination Policy concerns, of course, the environment, but it also addresses social impact. Its objective is to create a regenerative, community-minded tourism movement that results in a harmonious destination that strikes the right balance between sound management of tourist activities and respect for the quality of life in Montréal’s residential neighbourhoods.

The policy aims to:

• Help business cultures in the tourism sector adapt;
• Promote harmonious cohabitation of the local population and tourists;
• Make the destination resilient economically, socially, culturally and environmentally; and
• Reduce the environmental footprint of tourism development.

Three concrete examples

1. The strategy has comprehensive ambitions, one example of which is our carbon offsetting tool. It was created by Tourisme Montréal in collaboration with Aéroports de Montréal (ADM) and Carbone boréal so that visitors can calculate the emissions linked to various types of transport, tourist attractions, hotel stays and more. With the data it provides, visitors can easily offset the greenhouse gas emissions of their trip.  
    
2. Another example that highlights the social impact piece of Montréal’s sustainable tourism strategy is the Murelles project. The initiative by Tourisme Montréal, MU and Montréal centre-ville beautified two downtown alleyways with fresh greenery, urban furniture and colourful art — and that’s just the start. There are 20 more alleys planned over the next five years, all in view of a tourism experience that is community-focused, harmonious and regenerative.
    
3. For a last example that illustrates the role everyone has to play in this strategy, there’s our visitor’s pledge. This verbal contract, extended to everyone who calls Montréal home, be it for a day or a lifetime, asks us all to buy-in to a bright tomorrow by leaving only footprints, exploring sustainably, supporting local industry, celebrating difference and sharing the love with the Montréal community. Because we’re all in this together.

© Laurène Tinel - Tourisme Montréal

The city of Baku, capital of Azerbaijan

Welcome to an exciting journey to a land of stunning landscapes and rich culture as we delve into the Azerbaijan’s tourism potential. With its extraordinary transformations and unique offerings, Azerbaijan is a destination that inspires and captivates visitors from all across the globe.

Whether you seek a hiking adventure through lush nature, rejuvenating wellness experiences at top resorts, or indulging in award-winning wine experiences and delicious traditional cuisine, Azerbaijan has something to offer everyone. Cosmopolitan capital Baku boosts with tapestry of city experiences, from museums and galleries to chic bars with local wines and delicacies, to array of restaurants with traditional and international cuisines, as well as countless MICE offerings

With its well-equipped resources and world-class infrastructure, Azerbaijan can host events of all scales. It features a 5-star Baku International Airport, rated by Skytrax, plethora of chain hotels, versatile venues such as the iconic Flame Towers, and state-of-the-art facilities like the Baku Congress Center (picture below) and the Heydar Aliyev Center, which includes museums, exhibition complexes, and multimedia conference rooms for international conferences and events.

Azerbaijan has consistently demonstrated its ability to host major international events at the highest standards, including Eurovision 2012, Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix (2017-2026), First European Olympic Games (2015), Chess Olympiad 2016, The 2020 and UEFA European Football Championship 2020, and many more.

The Azerbaijan Tourism Board, in its mission to attract events, collaborates closely with carefully selected partner companies, including event venues, hotels, travel agencies, professional event planners, and airlines. These partnerships have led to the establishment of the Azerbaijan Business Events Industry Alliance, comprised of local companies, promoting unity and development among key players in the nation.

In 2019, the "Azerbaijan Business Tourism Ambassador Programme" was established alongside the Alliance for the Development of the Business Events Industry. This programme brings together individuals from the scientific and business communities. Ambassadors work collaboratively to prepare event attraction applications for Azerbaijan and facilitate annual meetings to foster stronger cooperation among programme members. Throughout the planning, promotion, and preparation of business events, ambassadors receive unwavering support.

Active engagement, commitment, and the united support of Azerbaijan's scientific community are essential for the successful hosting of scientific conferences and congresses, promoting our destination effectively. As a result, Azerbaijan has received approval for more than 20 international conferences and congresses. Notable examples include the International Astronautical Congress 2023, the Congress of the European Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 2023, and the University Fellows Leadership Symposium 2024, among many others.

Azerbaijan offers a unique opportunity to combine a business trip with an enriching vacation experience. It's easy to feel the warmth and richness of Azerbaijani culture, as unforgettable adventures await you in every corner of the country. Azerbaijan will delight everyone with its amazing nature, rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as exquisite cuisine.

Discover the cosmopolitan capital, Baku, with its historical sites, art galleries, shopping malls, and authentic restaurants. The city's architectural diversity encompasses the ancient UNESCO Old Town, the futuristic Flame Towers, and the Heydar Aliyev Centre (pictured above). Venture beyond Baku to experience prehistoric life at the UNESCO heritage - Gobustan State Historical and Cultural Reserve (below) with ancient petroglyphs and unique mud volcanoes located nearby.

Explore Azerbaijan's biodiversity through eco-tourism, hiking routes like the Transcaucasian Trail, and the picturesque UNESCO-listed village of Khinalig in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be captivated by the variety of species in Azerbaijan's diverse landscapes. Immerse yourself in Silk Road culture at UNESCO World Heritage site Sheki and discover traditional crafts in Basgal and Lahij villages.

The range of icy-colours, and luxury resorts with all the necessary equipment are perfect to get away in winter for skiing in Shahdag and Tufandag Mountain Resorts. The resorts are constructed in such a way that everything you are looking for is located in one place: scenic views with high-class hotels, apartments, spas, lots of restaurants to dine around, as well as different thrilling sports and leisure activities. Not many people know, but right here at Shahdag Mountain Resort, you'll find the only mountain coaster in the Caucasus. It's an exhilarating adventure for both the young and the young at heart. The infrastructure work here has been executed for the extension of the skiing slopes, leading to the overall length of 30 kilometres.

Indulge in Azerbaijan's diverse cuisine through the Slow Food Travel programme, which invites to the first hand sustainable gastronomical experiences. Rejuvenate at wellness resorts, including Duzdag's salt therapy and Naftalan's healing oil baths. Experience therapeutic balneotherapy treatments near Gabala and Lankaran.

Azerbaijan promises awe-inspiring experiences and soul-enriching adventures found nowhere else.

Plan your perfect adventure at Azerbaijan.travel

Ottawa Tourism has welcomed the announcement that TD Place in Ottawa will host the Pacific Four Series women's rugby tournament this summer.

The tournament, which will also benefit the city’s business events offering, will feature Canada, Australia, reigning world champions New Zealand and the United States.

The win demonstrates the city’s incredible event infrastructure as well as delivering legacy and benefits to the Canadian capital’s wider business events portfolio through the many other events that will run alongside the tournament.

“Winning a top-tier sporting event like this is incredible for Ottawa, but it’s about even more than the sport,” comments Lesley Mackay, Ottawa Tourism’s Vice President, Meeting and Major Events. “Alongside every major sporting event are receptions, hospitality, education and networking opportunities, which are vital to a city’s whole business events community, infrastructure and offering. Business events, tourism, and major sporting events work hand in hand to not just highlight everything a city has to offer, but to also demonstrate a city’s personality and passions, which is yet another reason we are so pleased with this win.”

The series kicks off on 8th July, when Canada will play against the New Zealand Black Ferns. In addition to the Pacific Four Series, Canada's U20 women's rugby team and the U18 Canada East Team will play matches in Ottawa during the event. The Canadian U20 team will play England on 8th July at TD Place.

For more information about the Pacific Four Series and the rugby matches, visit www.ottawatourism.ca

Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organisation for Washington, DC, today announced that domestic visitation in 2022 has rebounded to 91% of pre-pandemic levels. Visitors spent $8.1 billion and supported a record 84,111 jobs in 2022.

Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, led a rally for hundreds of hospitality industry professionals to celebrate the importance of tourism to the local economy. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser, Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of U.S. Travel Association and Gerren Price, president and CEO of the DowntownDC BID, spoke at the event held in Franklin Park.

“As an economic development organisation, we are optimistic about the increase in domestic visitation, near pre-pandemic levels of visitor spending and record jobs and tax revenue for Washington, DC last year,” said Ferguson. “But it’s important to be aggressive to grow domestic market share and impact international and business travel. Additional funding through Tourism Recovery District legislation allows us to compete with other top-tier destinations with larger budgets. We appreciate our city’s leaders who recognise the importance of investing in tourism and marketing our destination.”

“We know that people are the key to our comeback, so we love that visitors are coming back to DC,” said DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. “More visitors means more people supporting our local businesses, more jobs for our residents and more activity in our city. Those 20.7 million visitors spent more than $8 billion and supported more than 84,000 jobs – that is a win for DC.”

DDC is currently in market with a $5 million spring and summer domestic advertising campaign spanning digital, print, out-of-home and paid search and social. The buys include advanced television streaming and audio and custom digital content targeting DC’s top domestic markets, including New York City, Philadelphia and Chicago. One component is a takeover of all signage in the Philadelphia 30th Street Train Station from May 1-28 (cover photo). It features more than 140 placements produced by DDC’s in-house creative team, including six videos highlighting unique DC experiences. Campaign content connects to washington.org, where potential visitors learn more about summer holidays, hotel deals, dining and things to do each month. Editorial coverage complements paid and owned channels.

DDC’s Travel Rally takes place during the 40th anniversary of U.S. Travel Association’s National Travel and Tourism Week, meant to spotlight travel’s essential role in the U.S. economy. In 2022, the travel industry employed 8 million people and resulted in $1.2 trillion in direct travel spending. 

“The strength of travel to Washington, DC is indicative of strong demand for travel nationwide,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “Domestic leisure travel is thriving, and business and international inbound travel are both on the rise — a welcomed turning point for this essential sector of the economy.”

As part of strategic recovery, DDC’s investment in international tourism will grow in top visitor markets, including the UK, India, Australia and China, as well as those showing growth potential including Canada, Mexico and Brazil. While Washington, DC’s 2022 international visitor data is not final, the forecast shows between 1.1 to 1.3 million overseas visitors, which is approximately 71% of pre-pandemic levels. International visitors are typically 7% of visitation but comprise 27% of spending.

In 2023, Washington, DC hosts 16 citywide conventions (defined as bringing 2,500 room nights and above on peak). They generate an estimated 322,000 total room nights and a $245 million economic impact. Additional funding supports the convention sales and services team in its efforts to position Washington, DC as a “Connected” destination surrounding its thriving industries and access, as well as grow short-term and corporate business that has an immediate impact on hotels.

Prince Edward Island Convention Centre in Charlottetown | © Winston Maund (Destination Canada)

Destination Canada has announced the launch of the Canadian Visionaries Network (“CVN”).

A national platform, the CVN is composed of Canada’s network of academic, industry, and association leaders, whose knowledge capital and industry excellence has helped to secure high-profile conference wins aligned with Canada’s six priority economic sectors. The CVN currently consists of 28 founding members across these key sectors including: life sciences, agribusiness, advanced manufacturing, finance and insurance, technology, and natural resources. 

The CVN was designed to support the growth and reach of local conference ambassador programmes from coast-to-coast-to-coast — whose priority will continue to focus on the bidding opportunities that bring international events to Canada — and raise awareness of the country's immense intellectual capital offerings, promoting Canada on the international stage.

“Canada is home to visionary minds pushing the boundaries of global innovation,” says Virginie De Visscher, Senior Director, Business Events, Destination Canada. “This expertise is especially important for attracting international conferences to the country’s diverse destinations, as it gives organisations the chance to supercharge their event agendas with acclaimed keynote speakers, captivating state-of-the-art site tours, unparalleled networking opportunities and more.”

The CVN operates on the understanding that Canada’s thought leaders are invaluable not only for accelerating Canada’s global reputation as a best-in-class innovation ecosystem and leading host of business events but strengthening local conference ambassador programmes and bid activity.

Adds De Visscher, “Among Canada’s many strengths as a host for international business events, it’s the thought leaders and an openness to collaborating, sharing ideas and innovation, that truly puts Canada in a league of its own. The Canadian Visionaries Network exemplifies this as well as the integral role these talented and inspiring individuals have to play in our industry’s resilience. The CVN also includes several TED speakers from TED@Destination Canada, a first-of-its kind event and partnership with TED that was held in New York this past February.”

In 2022, Canada hosted nearly 430 international business events and welcomed approximately 271,000 international business event delegates (visitors). Source: Destination Canada Research

More information on participating CVN members can be found here.

At the CityDNA International Conference & General Assembly in Sofia, Bulgaria last week, CityDNA and Simpleview announced the launch of the VivaCITY Challenge.

VivaCITY is a project to transform and coach a DMO into a DMO that is futureproof and create a transforming strategy that is holistic, concise and tangible. 

Flavie de Bueil, COO of CityDNA says "the VivaCITY partnership with Simpleview is an incomparable opportunity for a member city to receive three years of funding and support from three global experts in destination development and implementation. This is a living lab for CityDNA, it goes beyond consulting to results.”

“We have our CityDNA new long-term strategy that is holistic,” says CityDNA President Petra Stušek, “now we need to walk our talk. When the word city pops up everybody thinks about Europe, it’s our fabric. Now we need to show the world that we can take strategy into implementation.”

Two DMOs selected through a clear process will have the opportunity to co-create their transforming strategy that is holistic, concise and tangible with the help of global experts in destination development and implementation: Professor Frank Cuypers, an International Leader in Destination Development, Elke Dens, a Specialist in Regenerative Placemaking, and David Peacock, Senior Strategist and Advisor for the Future Tourism Group at Simpleview.

“VivaCITY is for cities that want to champion progressive, holistic change. We are looking for two cities that are open-minded, enthused, show the courage to go the extra mile and the willingness to change,” Say David Peacock, “it underlines, Simpleview’s commitment to helping destinations unlock the enriching and restorative opportunities of tourism for citizens and visitors alike.”

Most importantly, the winner will have the opportunity to affect and inform positive change not just in their own city but within the wider tourism sector globally.

The VivaCITY Challenge intake is running from now until early July with the winning cities announced at CityDNA Autumn Conference in Valencia, Spain, from October 4-7.

Further information can be found here 

Ovation Holland DMC, re-strengthens its ties with RAI Amsterdam, the largest Exhibition and Convention Centre in the Netherlands.

Both Ovation and RAI have been well established key players in the local market for many years, deciding to renew their vows and reconfirm to the local and international markets that the partnership is important.

Combining both global and local expertise as well as a wide variety of service offerings, the partnership of the RAI Amsterdam and Ovation Holland DMC is a perfect fit. Furthermore, it’s an excellent example of a true one-stop-shop solution.

The original partnership was created in 2018. The last few years were unfortunate for the entire industry. Therefore, the need arose for re-establishing and reshaping the future together with the same growth mindset.

As a DMC partner, handling all ground services and off-site event requests, Ovation Holland DMC will keep providing expertise in Amsterdam and its surroundings. The name Special Events comprises all offered services by Ovation Holland DMC – RAI Amsterdam’s preferred supplier already since 1 January 2016.

About RAI Amsterdam

With about 125 years in the industry, RAI Amsterdam has become one of the most important convention centres in the Netherlands. Additionally, it is currently a leading international exhibition and conference organization. Every year the Convention Centre organizes approximately 500 events. Its international conferences, events, meetings, and presentations attract an average of 1.5 million visitors per year. Events range from trade shows and conferences of over 50,000 people to small-scale meetings of 10.

About Ovation Global DMC

Ovation Global DMC is the global leader in Destination Management, serving associations, corporations and agencies in more than 100 destinations throughout Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, North and South America for more than 25 years. With an extensive local expertise, creative and resources, they are specialised in designing and executing event objectives from logistics to exclusive high-end programmes. 

euromic, the association of many of the world’s most celebrated DMCs is now able to count two more in its number, as it announces and welcomes Hello! Destination Management and Connect DMC to its portfolio.

The three countries these two esteemed DMCs add – USA, Dominican Republic and Mexico – brings the number of destinations euromic offers up to 51 around the globe.

Hello! Destination Management, as one of the largest and most successful destination management companies in the US, opens up the vast possibilities of the United States.

Founded in 1986 with headquarters in Orlando, FL, Hello! currently operates in over 50 popular meeting destinations with 13 offices including Orlando, Las Vegas, New York, San Diego, Nashville, Miami, and Washington DC. From this solid and experienced base – from coast to coast and beach to ballroom! – they offer the best in incentive group travel programmes and experiences across the United States.

Paul Mears III, Hello!’s President and CEO commented, “We are very excited about joining euromic. It’s a great organisation, celebrating 50 years of leadership in destination management across the globe. And we will be their first and only U.S. member. I foresee a perfect partnership… This is a great way for us to learn new ways of thinking, expose our team to new expectations, and serve new clients with the guidance of experienced partners. And I am confident that our expertise and footprint in the U.S. make us the perfect partner for euromic and its members.”

The Dominican Republic and Mexico are two more amazing destinations for the incentive, meetings, events and conference world in the Americas right now – and Connect DMC brings them to the euromic table.

Established in 1999 and like Hello! recognised by many as a leading destination management company, Connect DMC has been providing premier services at a level that has given them an enviable reputation. Their creativity and innovation have distinguished them and garnered awards that prove their social awareness and cultural understanding of the areas they reach. With fully-owned and operated offices in Punta Cana, Los Cabos and Santo Domingo, Connect has a wealth of distinct local connections and little-black-book contacts to offer the very best in experience design, destination logistics, sustainability solutions and corporate event services.

Ben Sauvage, CEO and industry stalwart, is excited about the new membership, commenting, “As we join euromic, we are excited to bring our 24 years of experience in the meetings and events industry to this wonderful association and all of its carefully selected members. In our time in this field, we have developed a deep understanding of the importance of sustainability and continuously seeking out new and innovative ideas. We believe that our industry expertise and commitment to progress will be a valuable addition to the group, and we look forward to growing together with euromic with our upcoming expansion within Mexico and the Dominican Republic. We are eager to work with the team to deliver exceptional experiences for our clients. We are confident that together, we will make a positive impact on the industry as a whole.”

Huw Tuckett, euromic’s Executive Director, underlined their experience and reputation, saying of Connect, “Benoit and Connect are leaders and an exceptional DMC – exactly the type of DMC partner we represent at euromic. Benoit’s sustainability credentials and expertise in particular will be a major benefit to euromic, and to all those who trust to use our members for their programmes.”

And Rajeev Kohli, euromic President commented about Hello, “[they are] one of the most prominent domestic DMCs in the region. Under the leadership of Paul Mears III, this privately owned network is highly awarded and recognised for their work. We are excited to welcome them to the family”. Huw Tuckett, Executive Director of euromic, backed this, and added, “USA has always been a gap in our global coverage; not anymore. We are very honoured to have Hello! on board.”

Colombia has clearly become a major destination for green investments, with specific policies to attract events and a boom in sustainability. On the occasion of its 30th anniversary, PROCOLOMBIA has reinforced this position with a strong commitment to the event sector in Colombia and many global investors in the MICE industry

Colombia is increasingly promoting itself as an awe-inspiring setting for bold, innovative and exciting events on any scale, and as alternative to European and North American destinations.The country is one of the gateways to the South American continent, and its strategic location has encouraged the return of international events and conventions after the long-lasting pandemic. Its impressive biodiversity, the friendliness of the people and the magic of its unique locations have made the country an immersive and unforgettable venue for business meetings, whether you’re organising a conference, summit, expo, or once-in-a-lifetime team-building session.

Colombian officials are well aware of the treasure they possess as the second most biodiverse country in the world per square kilometre, home to over 50,000 species of plants and animals and 10% of the Amazon. “Our country represents a true world powerhouse of life, and our aim is to promote it and work towards the protection and conservation of its natural and cultural wealth,” Jose Puyana, Regional Director for Europe at PROCOLOMBIA − the country’s promoter of international tourism and events − tells us. The tourism offer is thus ready to welcome various profiles of travellers interested in nature, adventure and cultural heritage, but also in luxury experiences and corporate events. A wealth of possibilities that drives the strategy’s focus on diversity and sustainability. “We pride ourselves in being one of the few countries in the world with a clear roadmap on sustainable tourism, and that is exactly the kind of traveller we want to attract in this new post-pandemic world − one interested in exploring our massive diversity in terms of landscapes, cultures, history, but who also values the need of protecting these treasures for many generations to come.”

"In the latest ICCA Destination Performance Index 2021, Colombia sits in the 31st position only behind Brazil in the South American ranking and ahead of countries such as Argentina, Thailand or South Africa."

Colombia is made up of six different touristic regions – almost like six countries bundled into one – which offer particular experiences to each traveller. Consequently, this strategy seeks a responsible and intelligent way to generate influx of visitors to remote destinations, extended stays, and (ideally) repetition. “Since the pandemic, we have been working relentlessly with suppliers in Colombia to adjust our tourism offer and adapt it to this new profile. Our next meeting forum called Colombia Nature Travel Mart, to be held in September in our coffee region, will allow British tour operators to see these features for themselves,” says Puyana.

The meetings industry is one of the segments that has gained momentum to promote Colombia internationally. This industry generates over UDS $2.45 billion in the country every year, representing 22.8% of total income generated by international tourism. PROCOLOMBIA was recently able to present its MICE offering for international players at IMEX, which generated a revenue of around USD $6 million for Colombian suppliers, a blueprint that will cover other key tradeshows such as IBTM and The Meetings Show. “Our pitch is working well, and we are very pleased with the feedback we have seen from the industry. According to ICCA, some of our top destinations such as Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena were among the top 10 cities in the world for the number of events held in 2019. Fifty-three large-scale convention spaces with state-of-the-art technology are also available for professionals wishing to host events at competitive rates,” Puyana adds. In the latest ICCA Destination Performance Index 2021, Colombia sits in the 31st position only behind Brazil in the South American ranking and ahead of countries such as Argentina, Thailand or South Africa.

On the other hand, the country is very well positioned as an emerging player in Latin America in terms of energy transition, renewables and clean energy. In almost 70% of the cases, the energy consumed by an average person in Colombia does not produce any greenhouse gas emissions. There is a clear mandate from the authorities to make the most of the country’s potential in terms of wind and solar radiation with several projects for offshore generation and green hydrogen. So, has the country seized this opportunity to bring international green conferences? “Yes, we see Colombia as a leading destination in the Americas for conferences around the future of the energy transition. Key partners, such as our Ministry of Energy, Colombia’s Renewable Energy Association, our lead Business Association, and the Colombian Chamber of Energy, have been conducting international events to socialise the advantages and opportunities offered by non-conventional renewable energy sources in Colombia. We have also seen a significant growth led by companies in this segment, a trend we welcome enthusiastically,” Puyana clarifies.

For PROCOLOMBIA, the MICE industry has not only generated key sources of revenue but has also connected strategic sectors of the economy with the rest of the world, transferring knowledge inwards and projecting the country’s image. Colombian suppliers have started working quickly to strengthen their offering for hybrid events after the radical transformations in the event format. However, recent months have shown a rapid and significant growth in face-to-face meetings in Colombia: “In the twelve months to June 2022, we were able to attract a total of 595 events. These are 119 conventions, 195 incentive trips, 101 congresses, 29 sporting events and 67 events in other formats. This shows that the industry is recovering and that Colombia has demonstrated significant resilience and ability to adapt to new expectations.” Just by looking at the map, it is not difficult to see why Colombia has also ambitions to become a leading association hub in the Americas. With a privileged position and easy connectivity to virtually every major city in the region, its 17 free trade agreements allow any business to pull the strings to markets in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. “These conditions attract the attention of event organisers, but also of companies worldwide that wish to find a centre in the region,” Puyana highlights. “Reason why PROCOLOMBIA has been working for the last 30 years to promote the country as an ideal destination for foreign direct investment as well as an export platform and a reliable supplier of goods and services to the world."

The City Destinations Alliance’s Autumn Conference “Tourism in Transit”, that was held in Tel Aviv on October 19-22, 2022, was the opportunity for more than125 delegates from European cities and beyond to talk about all the transitions tourism is seeing and whether these are passing trends or here to stay. It was the first Conference organised under the new name of the association formerly known as European Cities Marketing.

The world is facing hyperinflation, global recession, war in Europe and rising geopolitical tensions. At the same time, people are navigating new technology with the metaverse and searching for the right platform to embark on the high speed for the net zero journey. The “Tourism in Transit” Conference helped answer questions that concern every tourism organisation.

BIG TRANSITION

The conference highlighted a few key figures from the DMOs present in the room. 55% said that it’s too soon to say if they Built Back Better. Nearly 100% see tourism taking climate action as a big transition and 62% believe in major systemic shift towards tourism advancing EDI goals (Equity, Diversity & Inclusion).

CLIMATE DISTRACTED

Jeremy Smith from Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency & The Travel Foundation pointed out how easily we get distracted from real issues: WWF just published that wildlife populations have declined globally by 69% in less than 50 years. If there is anything but big, radical transition in near future, there will be no future to talk about. Guy Bigwood from GDS-Movement followed up on with his perspective on a regenerative future.

COMMUNITY RELEVANCE

The DMO must shift focus to community relevance & service, as it was underlined by Anthony Everett, from 4VI, Frank Haas, formerly from Hawaii Tourism Authority & Jack Johnson from Destinations International. Listening to Gerry Proctor from Engage Liverpool, Angel Diaz, Council Member of Barcelona City, & Inger-Margrethe Jensen, Rethinkers at VisitAarhus, it was crystal clear that discussions of tourism has long since taken to streets & public fora shaped by a multitude of interest holders, engaged & active citizens. It’s Time for DMOcracy!

COMMUNITIES WITHIN COMMUNITY

Telling great community stories must come from within community; this requires trust & relationship-building. Emmy Award-winner, Rondel Holder, shared how NYC & Company is representing diverse communities with engaging & authentic content, while Frédérick Boutry shared visit.brussels’ approach in inviting more inclusive tourism, engaging with LGBTQI+ communities. Anu Syrmä shared how Helsinki Partners have worked for years to give locals voice, while recent Helsinki Curious initiative did a 180 degree turn by letting artists, who never visited Helsinki, represent the city only using their own knowledge of the city.

HYBRID REALITY

Jacqui Kenny, also known as The Agoraphobic Traveller, immersed attendees in dream-like images from exploring the world via Google Street View. The majority of the room voted Metaverse more hype than hope, but Hannah Gutkauf from Manyone made the room reconsider think about the need for long-term planning for phygital hybrid realities ahead, while Jonathan Gomez Punzón from Málaga Tourism Board shared their advanced planning & real-time data analysis for better destination management.

Many more insights were shared throughout the 2-day conference from other CityDNA members destinations such as Aarhus, Amsterdam, Athens, Budapest, Catalonia, Copenhagen, Germany, Gothenburg, Helsinki, Maastricht, The Hague and Valencia, but also from companies and organisations like It’s July, Kenes Group, Miles Partnership, OECD, ReD Associates, TripDoodler and Trippz as well as CityDNA’s Partners: ForwardKeys, IMEX Group, Modul University Vienna and Simpleview.

The conference was moderated by Signe Jungersted, CEO and Co-Founder of Group NAO.

Sharon Landes-Fischer, CEO of Tel Aviv Global said “It was with great pleasure that we hosted the CityDNA 2022 Autumn Conference here in Tel Aviv. From riveting presentations to guided tours around the city to exhilarating parties, we enjoyed showing some of the best parts of sunny Tel Aviv. Through our partnership with CityDNA and participating European cities, we will continue to learn from, and inspire, each other. Tel Aviv cannot wait to welcome and host even more tourists from around the world, here in the nonstop city. So, pack your bags but pack lightly, because as you may have heard – we don’t do winter!”

City Destinations Alliance’s President, Petra Stušek concluded “The Conference explored multiple levels on how the DMOs can “Build Back Better”. Fundamental questions have been asked: what is lost in translation, what is a passing trend only and what is here to stay as a big transition. We explored the critical role of DMOs in climate action; where to start, how to create support and engage stakeholders and community. We focused on the challenges and opportunities, requirements and expectations to the role and purpose of CVBs in the future. Is phygital the new balance of destination marketing? How to successfully include stakeholders to responsible tourism manifestos on the destination… Burning questions with exciting discussions and concrete answers!”.

The next City Destinations Alliance International Conference will take place in Sofia on April 19-22, 2023.